Living with Arthritis...

The term "Arthritis" includes over 100 joint inflammation diseases and conditions.
Everything from Osteoarthritis to gout to rheumatoid arthritis. Currently, there are 46 million arthritis patients in the US. Arthritis occurs more often as people age. Arthritis is general costs the US economy $128 billion per year.

The first most common form of Arthritis is Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the tissues lining the joints. Some of the symptoms include pain and stiffness. Keeping the inflammation down is key. Drinking plenty of water is important. Eating healthy, getting adeguate rest and minimizing stress is helpful also. At times alternating heat and cold packs may be helpful.

Osteoarthritis is prevalent in people age 60 and older. It is a chronic,degenerative form of arthritis where cartilage between the bones in a joint breaks down,causing friction and pain. It generally affects more than one joint and is most often in the weight bearing joints such as the hips,knees and lower back. Ninety percent of people over 40 have signs of osetoarthritis. The symptoms like pain and stiffness often develop much later. Other symptoms include loss of flexibility in a joint,fatigue,poor posture and pain.

Like the case with most diseases following a healthy lifestyle and minimizing stress some symptoms can be minimized. The correct form of exercise can also be beneficial. Always contact your physician before implementing any new exercise.

With most forms of Arthritis it is common that people use mobility aids to help increase mobility and make day to day life easier. Walkers, rollators,canes, grabbers and lift chairs are available to help ease activities. These items are available at most medical equipment companies or DME companies. For more information contact www.oxygenplusmichigan.com or call 734-429-7444.

Hazards at home:Are you at risk for falling?

Did you know falls are one of the greatest causes of serious health problems.

Screening is one of the most important ways to determine if you are "at risk" of falling.
Factors my be physical,such as balancs,flexibility, cardiovascular fitness or environmental, such as hazards around your home.
Quite often the cause of a fall can be right in your own home and is easily corrected.
Below is a list of possible risk factors that may exist in you home.

General risks: poor lighting,slippery floors,uneven floors,throw rugs,runners,mats small objects in pathways.
Kitchen: Unstable step stool,storage areas that require excessive reaching, unstable seating and wet floors.
Outside: walkways in disrepair,wet smooth surfaces,high curbs,poor night lighting garden hose across the walk area.

A more complete list available at OxygenPlus!

It is crucial to determine if you are at risk,identify the factors that put you at risk,modify risk factors and maintain independence. If you are interested in participating in a fall risk screening program please contact OxygenPlus at 734-429-7444 or visit www.oxygenplusmichigan.com